It is relatively rare for one of the world’s best players in his position to become surplus to requirements. However, with Real Madrid left-back Marcelo keen to reunite with former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo at Juventus, this is the position in which Alex Sandro could find himself. Should Sandro, who only signed a contract extension in December, become available, there will be a fierce competition for his signature.
Alex Sandro: Who Could the Available Star Join the Summer?
Premier League Interest
Manchester United were very keen to bring Sandro to the club last summer but found Juventus to be unwilling sellers. Whilst Luke Shaw has played at a high level this season, there remain questions surrounding his ability to remain fit. Whilst Shaw has overcome these problems to 31 appearances this season, he has withdrawn from the England squad this week with an injury. Having seen Shaw miss large chunks of his career with injury, United may still want to bring in Sandro.
Both Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are also reportedly interested in bringing in a left back. For City, Benjamin Mendy has only made one appearance since November due to injury. He also missed the majority of last season. Pep Guardiola admitted last week that the club will be looking to bring in another left-back this summer. This is despite the promising performances of Oleksandr Zinchenko. At Tottenham, both Danny Rose and Ben Davies have performed inconsistently this season. Both players have also struggled for fitness, with Jan Vertonghen forced to play at left back on occasions. Alex Sandro would suit the system of both City and Tottenham as he is capable of playing in a back four or five, with Juventus frequently switching between the two.
Swap for Marcelo?
It was telling that regular starter at left-back Sergio Reguilon was dropped for Zinedine Zidane’s first game back in charge of Real Madrid. Reguilon, 22, has impressed with his opportunity when given starts but has not yet earned the trust of Zidane. This indicates that should Marcelo depart, Real may be keen to bring in a replacement.
Although Sandro has not been able to usurp Marcelo from the Brazil team, many would argue that his signing would be an upgrade for Real. Juventus may consider a swap deal if Sandro has an interest in going the other way.
To Remain in Italy
Alex Sandro would be a significant upgrade at left-back for any team in Italy. When compared with Aleksandar Kolarov (Roma), Elseid Hysaj (Napoli) and Kwadwo Asamoah (Inter Milan), his superiority is clear. Sandro has far superior attacking stats: more chances created and more passes completed. This is unsurprising given his playing for the league’s best side. However, he also fares better statistically at the other end of the pitch. Sandro leads in tackles made and headers won, whilst being only narrowly behind Kolarov in interceptions. This highlights his status as the best left back in the league and one who would be highly coveted should he become available.
Whether Juventus would be willing to sell to a domestic rival could be a sticking point. However, over the years they have shown a willingness to sell to rivals, most recently with Mattia Caldara to AC Milan.
Stay at Juventus
Alex Sandro’s departure from Turin is not yet certain. Prior to the reappointment of Zinedine Zidane, it appeared certain that Marcelo would be joining Juventus this summer. However, with Marcelo now set to receive more playing time at Madrid, this transfer is no longer assured. Should this fail to materialise, it is highly likely that Sandro will be staying in Juventus.
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